Austin to Williams and
Thompson 14 Dec 1826
San Felipe de Austin Decr 14. 1826 Mr. JOHN A WILLIAMS B. J. THOMPSON SIR I have heard
with the deepest regret and astonishment of the late proceedings against the Authorities
of Nacogdoches, it appears as tho. the people in your quarter have run mad or worse they
are distroying themselves, building up the credit of their enemies with the Govt and
jeopardising the prospects of hundreds of innocent families who wish to live in peace and
quietness in the country---The new colonies are yet in their infancy and the Gov, will
either protect or crush them according to the opinion it may form as to the character they
will assume---when arrived at full maturity---Should the conduct of the new Emigrants in
the infancy of their settlement be such as to convince the Government that in their
manhood they will be turbulent and disobedient, it will crush them; but on the contrary
should their conduct be such as to satisfy Government that they will be usefull and
obedient members of the Mexican family it will protect them. What opinion will the Govt
form of the Americans should they judge of them by the late proceedings at Nacogdoches?
certainly a most unfavorable one---one that I fear will have an influence on the future
prosperity and settlement of the country---Those measures were in the highest degree
imprudent and illegal, for the law points out the mode of punishing officers in this Govt.
from the President down to an Alcalde or a corporal and the legal tract ought to have been
pursued and no other-they were most dreadfully illtimed. The slave question is now pending
in the Legislature, the constitution now forming. What influence are acts of this
outragious character calculated to have on the minds of the members and on the decission
of the slave or any other question involving the interests and prosperity of the now
Settlements? certainly a most unfavorable influence. With what face can any of those who
are engaged in the late affray ask favors of the Gov' when the same hand that prevents the
petition had just been raised in open hostility against its constituted authorities? And
how are such measures to be justified? Why you will say the Alcalde had done injustice etc
but admitting be has done all this, were the right steps taken to call him to account No.
the law was trampled upon and passion or madness took the command I am not only
astonished, but I am in the highest degree displeased at Burril J Thompson for the mad
course he has pursued. I had a different opinion of him and spoke in his favor to the
Govt. What can I say now?

There is one way for you all to save yourselves and only one, and that
is to go in person and present yourselves to the chief of the Department of Texas, State
your grievances, and acknowledge at once and without any reserve or stiff and foolish
republican obstinacy that wrong steps were taken, that the attack on the Alealde was
totally wrong-that you were misled by passion or something else, (for it puzzles me to
frame excuses for such conduct) and petition the Governor to order a general court of
inquiry in which the conduct of the Alcalde and Gains and all others and your own should
be fully and fairly and openly investigated, and that their punishment should fall on the
heads of those who merited it without respect of person---If you take this course all may
be terminated well. Let B. J. Thompson dissolve his company and have no more to do with
any such business had he taken my advice and let the company alone unless it could have
been sanctioned by the proper Authority he would have saved himself from these
difficulties. I wrote him what the law was and he is without excuse on that point---Let
the Americans put aside their rifles and be guided by more prudence and reason than they
have been. Let them submit to the Gov, and be obedient to the laws and only seek redress
in the legal mode and let no time, not one moment be lost in stating to the Govt. your
submission and readiness to abide by their judgment and throw yourselves on their mercy,
for no matter what Norris may have done the party who entered Nacogdoches have done as bad
and are liable to heavy punishment. If you take the right course now all will be well If
you do not, I cannot say what may be the result---it may be some time before any
investigation will take place, but you ought to loose no time in taking the course I have
pointed out Col Bean is going on, he is an officer in the mexican army. Advice with him
and put aside all your ill timed and I must say injudicious and obstinate republican
nicity, and allay all your passions and excitements and take prudence for your guide and
above all throw away your arms unless you can use them to better purpose than violating
the laws You may think this letter severe, my object is to befried you so far as I can
consistent with my duty and so far as I believe you merit it and no farther you want
strong medicine. You may deem the course I have pointed out an unpleasant one or make a
thousand imaginary objections but you may rely on it that it is the only one that can save
you you must humble yourselves before the Government and that immediately you can shew
this letter to whoever you please, a certain person in your country has always it seems
tormented his imagination about one of my letters, and to save him and others the pain of
guessing they are welcome to see this S. F. AUSTIN [Rubric] Addressed:] Mr. John A
Williams or Burril J. Thompson District of Nacogdoches

Austin to Thompson.
MR. B. J. THOMPSON SAN FELIPE DE AUSTIN, January 1, 1827. DEAR SIR,-In wishing you a happy
new year, I regret I cannot add my approbation of some of your acts in the last months of
the past one, though perhaps I do not understand the motives which governed you. So far as
I do understand them, I am compelled to say, with all the frankness of an old friend, that
you are wrong. I hope, however, that you and the majority of the good people in that
country have been slandered, and that the reports we have in circulation here about you
are false, for I cannot believe that you have so far lost your senses as to think of open
opposition to the government; neither will I believe that you have so far forgotten the
land of your birth and the proud name of American as to disgrace that name by associating
yourself with persons, and advocating a cause, unworthy of it. My friend, you are wrong,
totally wrong, from beginning to the end of this Nacogdoches affair! I have no doubt that
great cause of complaint exists against the alcalde and a few others in that district, but
you have taken the wrong method of seeking redress. The law has pointed out the mode of
punishing officers in this government, from the President down, and no individual or
individuals ought to assume to themselves that authority; but what is past is done; let us
forget it and look to the future. If you will take reason for your guide in future, and do
your duty as a citizen of this government, all will be right. The chief of this department
is on his way to Nacogdoches; his object is to regulate the government and do justice to
all; he is a mild and good man and will never do an act of injustice to any one and if you
will come forward freely and without reserve, and in a respectful manner submit to his
authority, you will save yourself and family from total and inevitable ruin. You have been
most astonishingly imprudent, but I do not think it too late for you to settle all that is
past, for I cannot believe that you have been so mad as to think of joining the Indians
and opposing the government by force. The people of this colony are unanimous. I have not
heard of one here who is not opposed to your violent measures; and there is not one among
us who will not freely take up arms to oppose you and sustain the government, should it be
necessary to do so.

My wish is to befriend you all so far as I can consistent with my duty,
and if you will rely upon me and listen to my advice, all will be settled easily. Separate
yourself from all factions; disband your volunteer company, raised in violation of law,
and submit to the government freely and without hesitation and put aside your arms. If you
do this, I have no doubt but everything will be satisfactorily settled; take the opposite
course and you are lost, for you need not believe those who tell you that this government
is without power; they can send three thousand men to Nacogdoches if it should be
necessary, and there is not a man in this colony who would not join them. Think what you
are about, my friend, and save yourself by adopting the course I have pointed out before
it is too late. Farewell; may you have a happy new year, but whether you will or not
depends entirely on yourself. STEPHEN F. AUSTIN

Blanco to
Edwards-cancellation of contract.

Following the advice of Colonel Austin, B. W. Edwards wrote the
governor of the state, Don Victor Blanco,.and gave him a detailed account of the
difficulties that had arisen; together with the "stupidity" of the alcalde,
Norris, and the treachery of his brother-in-law, Captain James Gaines, who controlled and
gave direction to all he did; also the efforts made and being made by his brother to
secure settlers; and, in conclusion, he asked the governor to stay proceedings against his
brother until he returned, to afford him an opportunity to make his defense.

In reply to this communication, Governor Blanco, under date of October
2, wrote:

In view of such proceedings, by which the conduct of Hayden Edwards
is well attested, I have declared the annulment of his contract, and his expulsion from
the territory of the republic, in discharge of the supreme orders with which I am
invested. He has lost the confidence of the government, which is suspicious of his
fidelity; besides, it is not prudent to admit those who begin by dictating laws as
sovereigns. If to you or your constituent these measures are unwelcome and prejudicial,
you can apply to the supreme government; but you will first evacuate the country, both
yourself and Hayden Edwards; for which purpose I this day repeat my orders to the
authorities of that department in the execution of which, as they will expel from the
country all evil-doers, so they will extend full protection to those of worth, probity,
and useful skill, that have settled therein, and are submissive to the laws and
constituted authorities.

Organization of the
Fredonian movement, alliance with the Cherokees.

Before the receipt of the above letter Hayden Edwards had returned.
Feeling himself both aggrieved and insulted, he determined to resist. He made an appeal to
the American settlers and to the Cherokee Indians, who considering themselves badly
treated by the government of Mexico listened favorably to Edwards. On the 20th of
December, Hunter, Fields, and some other chiefs, after consulting three days, entered into
a solemn league and confederation. The objects of the treaty were twofold, to wit:

1st. To divide the territory of Texas between the Indians and
Americans. This was done by giving to the former that portion lying north of a line
beginning at the mouth of Sulphur Fork; thence to a point not far from Nacogdoches; thence
to the Rio Grande. All the territory south of that boundary to belon to the other party.

2d. To prosecute together the war against Mexico, until their
independence was consummated.

The treaty was made by Hayden Edwards and Harmon B. Mayo, on the part
of the Americans, and by Richard Fields and John Dunn Hunter, on the part of the Indians.
The Fredonian legislature or committee that ratified it was composed of the following
persons, viz: Martin Parmer president, Hayden Edwards, B. W. Edwards, John Sproul, B. J.
Thompson, Joseph A. Huber, W. R. Ligon, and H. B. Mayo, on the part of the Americans; and
by Richard Fields, John Dunn Hunter, Ne-ko-lake, John Bags, and Kukto-ke, on the part of
the Indians. The new state was named Fredonia. In the meantime, on the 18th of December,
1826, the Fredonians, to the number of about two hundred, took possession of the "old
Stone House" and began to fortify. Having raised their flag, they began an organization of their force and
government. Colonel Martin Parmer was chosen commander of the militia. On the 4th of
January, 1827, Norris, the alcalde, who had been deposed, finding the town defended by a
small force, most of the Fredonians apprehending no danger had gone to their homes, raised
a force of some eighty men and took position near the Stone House, intending to capture
and hang the few Fredonians left to guard the place. Parmer had eleven men, and Hunter
eight Cherokees, with whom they marched out and charged Norris's force, of which they
killed one man and wounded some ten or twelve, and captured about half their horses.
Norris made good his retreat and crossed the Sabine.

Contemporary Reports

Theodore Dorsett to Samuel
Norris Ayish Bayou 20 Dec 1826
Ayes Bayou December 20th 1826 Dear sir I Call the Company to
Geather yesterday to Sound the minds togeather & they all seames to taek one way & that Is the rite way our
Commity has return home much Disgusted at the proceding of the Settin of Congress a grate
Demier amungst them likely Caus by Rason the flag of Independence & for opporsition to
Goverment there is two thirds of their own Company has Cum home & will return to day a
Shame of their Conduct & Ready to hide Ef theay Cold find a place
our meating is to morrow for all the Cum I Expect my Company to Strengthin
fast theay vill then Bee for Readiness to Bee in your order & hav
the Same with acclamation for not Idle tho hardly able to Travele a bout
Lett me hear from you as quick as posable to hear the News & your
movemintz ar what Ever Step you may think to taek that may Be most advantages to the
Government Rite me your strenght of Indians & what tribes
Also from Fields mind & Entention of Bisiness at presant &
Beene Ef at hand Rite it Cum quick & Speady as they is nou time to
luze at this time name your plaze of Randavus publick or privit. It will
meet the approbation of the men nou more But Remain Still as Befour till Death

I Believe Cole Beene be at for
Curtin though Cold Bee put to flite speadily---the mindz of many air concile for fear as
the threats is Sow Sevear to all hu may be in opposition to them nou doubt but Evury
privit advantage will be tacen By Day or by nite an Endivalz &
property for that is the Last Remaday to fly to---for Reveng Befour theay macke their
Escap or Shold. Theo Dorsett Samuel Norriss [Docketing
note]: 1826 Theo Dorsett -to- S Norriss Dec.

Natchitoches Courier Article on the
Fredonian Affair.

December 31, 1826. TO THE EDITOR OF THE NATCHITOCHES COURIER. SIR,-I am
bound for the sake of public instruction, as well as for my own justification, to explain
the compulsive motives that forced me to sign my name to a treaty held between the Don
Quixotic Republic at Nacogdoches and several Indian chiefs that have intruded themselves
in the province of Texas. I arrived in Nacogdoches the 15th instant, and was about to
leave that place on the 16th, when a masquerade of sixteen revolutionists entered said
place, with a sort of flag erected in opposition to that government under which I serve.
The evening previous to this carnival entry some of the leading characters of this
revolutionary mob threatened to pursue and seize a certain Don Veramendi and Don Seguin,
bound to Bexar. I, of course, belonging to the same, and moreover military service, of
that nation, in opposition to which they planted their so-called standard of safety, had
not to expect a treatment more favorable from these zealous defenders of human rights than
the gentlemen aforesaid, and in order to prevent from being cast into those dungeons which
the gentlemen correspondents so gloomily depicted, I pretendedly joined their huzzas, and
so artfully blindfolded these republican politicians that they had no scruple to elect me
a member of their council of state, an office I accepted, but for the latter diving into
the affairs of this lunatic cabinet; and it was this policy that made me sign that
infamous treaty, which, besides its treasonable object, savors of plunder and unburies the
tomahawk of the cruel savage.

You are very likely anxious to know how I could extricate myself from
this diplomatic mob without being put to the stake as a political apostate, and I am no
less willing to lead you into this mystery. I escaped with all the honors of an
experienced diplomat. I escaped as envoy extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary to
stir the flame of civil discord at the Pecan Point, by a proclamation issued to the
citizens of that district; a mission which I more willingly accepted than fulfilled, a
proclamation whose fallacious contents I am obliged to refute. No. 1. They exculpate
themselves for having planted their independent rag before they could consult the rest of
their fellow-citizens, calumniating thereby all the inhabitants of the province as being
concerned in their rebellion, though the majority of their own and nearest neighbors are
not only adverse to, but in open opposition towards these desperadoes. No. 2. "Placed
in a situation peculiar to ourselves." Indeed, it is a situation peculiar to
themselves; for most of these revolutionists, being stained with all the crimes the
Decalogue enumerates, most of them fugitives from that mother country into which they dare
not return, and having until now been self-secure in Texas under the heretofore
unorganized government, against which they now revolt because that government is about to
establish its constitutional laws, and to put a stop to the unrestrained infringements of
these lawless desperadoes by a military force. This is the situation 'peculiar to
themselves.' The unexperienced reader of this rebellious proclamation is induced to
believe that the citizens of Texas had the Mexican bayonets continually pointed at their
breast, whereas the fact is that no such bayonet was to be found short of five hundred
miles of that district. "Our liberties and our lives endangered." Pray,
whose liberties and whose lives? "Sentenced without trial at the mere will and
pleasure of a prejudiced governor." Pray, was it this prejudiced governor's will
and pleasure to have Jacob L. Nugent handcuffed, pinioned, tied to a horse, and then shot
under the pretence of leading him to the trial? They say "he tried to run
away," and eight well-armed men could not stop a fettered prisoner! A candid,
honest public may judge the merits of the proclamation from the proclaimers, whose
character entitles me to the prediction that they may do a great deal of harm, and those
that expect any good consequences must be ignorant of the axiom, that from evil causes no
good effects can result. JOSE A. HUBER, Surgeon in the Ninth Regiment, Mexican Dragoons.

Lt. H. Haile to Col. B. W.
Edwards 4 Jan 1827 Neches
Neches 23rd Jany 1827 Col. B.W. Edwards I recd yours of the 20th
Inst . in which you inform me that you send me a reinforcement of three men of which but
one has arrived. A. B. Edwards will bring this and by.him you can learn the particulars of
this place and the conduct I have pursued since I came to this place. I am sorry to hear
you think I have been inattentive to my duty. It is true I have not kept a constant guard
but when I thought there was danger I have done so. I am aware you have had some
representations from some of the men that went in or from the prisoners. But I hope you
did not give them much credit. [Line lost in fold] they wanted to go and
they was in the way at the place and I thought by sending them in they would be removed
from their families and that would be a great inducement to the families to keep silent
while the were in keeping at Nacogdoches.

I will send the charges in that letter and the witnesses will come in
as soon as they can which will be tomorrow. I hope you will question them closely. Asa
will tell why I write this. The Ferry Boat has been sunk for some days back we have
crossed several times. I will cross today with four men and at the woods from McLains to
the River as there is some sines in that quarter by [? ]ting after night. But I cant
believe there [is] any enemy in that quarter. I will learn today and if there is any I
will inform you by express. There was five Cherokees come last evening but whether they
will remain I am uncertain but I will try and get them to stay here. I expect Doct Hunter
(John Dunn) in a day or so. From what you write me when they come I shall go as far as the
Trinity and I am very anxious he should come as I could do something. My force has been
rather small for me to do anything like looking for the enemy far.

I shall raise the flat [flag?] as soon as I can and then I will cross
every day and look out then or twenty miles beyond McLains. Your last letter has give the
men here great satisfaction and they are very willing to remain here if they could have
some cloths and I hope you will send them some. I can't speak to much in praise of the men
under my command and I hope you will send them some cloths. I hope you will send a
reinforcement as soon as you can as the duty is very hard on the small number of men here
and men are such as are here should not be worn out by hard duty. I will inform you by
express if there is any danger and I will keep a lookout every day. We stand in need of
Lath and powder. Vandawricah wants a blanket and I hope you can find him one and if you
can get me a Buffalo robe I hope you will send one to me. I find there is no pleasing
Calhoun and Gressom as they want me to let them have horses to pack their property away
and I have not taken much pain in obliging them. They are the cause of my writing to you
that the Williams are not friendly and they are now trying to make fair wether with the
prisoners. If the Coffee is not out send us some as we have not tasted any since we come.

The names of the men at this post W H Milburn D Hays
J Shennich Wm Nichols H Vandavaricah
Henry Bunch J Light You can ask their friends there where their
clothes are. I expect McLain is a good witness in this case as Bean made his house
his home for some time. I am ready to do anything for the cause that is in my
power. I am yours to command H Haile Lieut Comd. at Naches

Attempts to enlist support
among the colonists by Edwards and the Fredonians

B.W. Edwards to Buckner. TO CAPTAIN AYLETT C.
BUCKNER, Colorado, Austin's Colony, Texas. DEAR SIR,-Enclosed are papers which will
explain their meaning. Though a stranger to you, I take it upon myself to forward you
these documents at the request of my brother; and, from a high regard for your character
and true American feelings, long since known to me, I am prompted at this moment to open a
correspondence with you, believing that in times like these we would both feel superior to
the little formalities of fashionable intercourse, which too often cramp the acts of
congenial souls. Buckner, "this is the time to try the souls of men!" The flag
of liberty now waves in majestic triumph on the heights of Nacogdoches, and despotism
stands appalled at the sight. I need not say to you why we have taken this bold and
determined stand. You are not ignorant of our oppressions here, nor can you be less
acquainted with the treachery and perfidy of this government. We have found documents in
the office here making it evident that troops would be sent on to force us into submission
to our wrongs, and to dragoon us into slavery. We are Americans, and will sooner die like
freemen than to live like slaves!

We have not acted blindly or precipitately in this matter. We have for
some time looked forward to this issue, and were prepared for it. The Indians on our north
have long since intended the same thing, and have only been waiting for us to say the
word. They were determined to have a part of the country, which, they say, was promised to
them by the government, and which they will never yield. They have immigrated of late in
great numbers to the northern part of this province. Under those considerations, and for
our own security and protection, we have just completed a treaty with them, designating a
line to the north of this, running westwardly to the Rio Grande, securing all individual
rights within their territory. The treaty was signed by Dr. John D. Hunter and Richard
Fields as the representatives of the United Nations of Indians, comprising twenty-three
tribes. They are now our decided friends, and by compact, as well as interest, are bound
to aid us in effecting the independence of this country. The Comanches are in alliance
with them, and their united efforts will be immediately directed against this base and
faithless government. We will be in motion in a short time. We have sent communications to
yours and to every district in the province inviting each district to appoint two
delegates, to assemble here and make a declaration of independence, etc. On your
patriotism and firmness we much rely in promoting this glorious end. I have no doubt that
the people in Austin's colony are true Americans; indeed, I have pledged my word on it. Do
not hazard too much; but, my dear sir, we can send you an ample force to secure the people
of that colony, and will do it the moment we ascertain they are for independence. We are
now only waiting to ascertain that fact in due form; morally, we cannot doubt it. You are
Americans and our brothers, and, besides, you are the sons of freemen. To arms, then, our
countrymen, and let us no longer submit to the caprice, the treachery, and oppression of
such a government as this!

Our friends in the United States are already in arms, and only waiting
for the word. We had some little opposition, on the Aes Bayou, from a few servile tools of
Norris and Gaines; but the indignation of the multitude rose in the majesty of the
American feeling, and they have fled in precipitation, and returned to the United States,
there to meet the indignant scorn of every American. The cause of liberty will prevail,
and in a little time we will once more be freemen! I have written to you like an old
acquaintance, because, in times like these, our souls should speak forth their unaffected
feelings. Adieu. Let me hear from you without delay. With sentiments of respect, etc. B.
W. EDWARDS

B.W. Edwards to Thompson.
NACOGDOCHES, December 26, 1826. TO CAPTAIN JESSE THOMPSON, San Bernard, Austin's Colony,
Texas. DEAR THOMPSON,-We have raised the flag of liberty in Nacogdoches. We have made a
solemn treaty with all the northern Indians in this province, signed by John D. Hunter and
Richard Fields, as the representatives of twenty-three tribes, and by several other chiefs
for their respective tribes. They have pledged themselves to aid us in our independence,
and will very soon have several thousand warriors in the field. They claim the northern
portion of this province, and are determined to be independent of the Mexican government.
Those various tribes, and the Comanches, are now in alliance, and, with our aid, will make
this government shake to its centre. I need not say to you why we have taken this bold and
resolute stand. You have long since known our oppressions and the insecurity of our rights
under this corrupt and despotic government. Thompson, we could not endure those outrages
upon our rights and liberties any longer. We are Americans, and will sooner die than
submit to slavery and oppression. We have now planted the standard of liberty and
independence and, like our forefathers, will support it or perish by it.

Are you not Americans, too, and our brothers? Will you not rally around
this glorious standard and aid us in support of this holy cause? To arms, then, like free
men and the sons of those departed patriots who fought and bled for freedom! Should the
Spanish troops pass the Brazos, if you are Americans, they never will return; they never
will reach this place. Dorsett, Macky, and a few others, and even judge Williams (from
disappointed ambition), rallied a few deluded Americans to march upon us and to take us in
chains to San Antonio. They had not the courage to make the charge, and concluded to
retreat, although joined by Norris and a number of Spaniards. Williams, Dorsett, and the
ringleaders of that disgraceful expedition have met the angry frowns of their
fellow-citizens at home, and, fearing the just punishment of their unnatural crime, have
fled in terror to the United States, there to encounter the scorn of every American
patriot. So flee all the enemies of liberty! In a little time we expect to have a large
force on the way to San Antonio. Could you not manage it so as to take, the several pieces
of cannon now in possession of that damned old rascal M. Dilson? Adieu, Thompson; 'now
is the time to try the souls of men.' Remember that you are an American. Write
immediately. Your friend, B. W. EDWARDS. P.S.-We have sent communications to every
district, which will explain everything. If my brother is in reach of you when you get
this, send an express and let him know his danger. B. W. E.

B. W. Edwards to Ross.
NACOGDOCHES, December 26, 1826. TO COLONEL JAMES ROSS, Colorado, Austin's Colony, Texas.
DEAR SIR,-In times like these the soul of every freeman feels inclined to speak its
impulse to every kindred spirit! You and I, Sir, are strangers; but you are an American
and so am I. The time has arrived when that proud title, I trust, will be a sufficient
passport to the bosom of every man who claims freedom as his birthright. Nor are you, Sir,
as a man unknown to me. The high consideration I entertain for your character and
patriotism is my apology for the liberty I now take in addressing you. The flag of liberty
and independence now floats above my head! No longer willing to endure oppression, we
have, like our forefathers, resolved upon liberty or death. We have been prematurely
forced into the field; threatened with the vengeance of a brutal soldiery, we have come
forward like the sons of freemen to meet those invaders and to protect our fellow-citizens
who are marked out as the destined victims of oppression and of violence. We call upon you
and every American, as our brothers in a foreign land, to aid us in this holy cause.
Twenty-three nations of Indians, exclusive of the Comanches, are now sacredly pledged to
aid us in our independence. We must succeed, and this base government will soon shake to
its foundation. We have sent communications to every part of your colony, etc., and are
now only waiting to know the determination of our friends in that quarter. The
communications will explain everything. I have written fully to Captain Buckner. If you
appreciate my feelings, you will of course write me immediately. In haste, With sentiments
of respect, Yours, etc., B. W. EDWARDS.

B.W. Edwards to Syms.
NACOGDOCHES, December 27, 1826. To CAPTAIN BARTLETT SYMS, Brazos, Austin's Colony, Texas.
DEAR SIR,-I write you in much haste to apprise you that the Americans in this end of the
province have at length resolved to throw off the yoke of despotism and to be freemen. The
flag of liberty now floats in triumph on the soil of Texas, and the Americans are daily
rallying around it with a determination to support their rights or die in their defence.
We have been shamefully oppressed for twelve long months. We have complained to this
corrupt government in vain, and our only reply when we have stated our grievances has been
that troops would be sent on to dragoon us into submission. Could Americans, the sons of
those who planted the standard of liberty in our native country, bend their necks to
military despotism? No! We are the sons of freemen and will sooner die than be slaves!
There is no security under this perfidious government; they give and they take away, and
all our titles are held by the uncertain tenure of the will, the mere breath of a corrupt
and depraved governor. We are determined no longer to submit to oppression. We have made a
treaty with all the Indians to our north, and in a short time will have several thousand
of them on the march to the interior of this country. To arms then, my dear fellow ! I
know you have the soul of an American in your bosom. Rouse our countrymen to arms, and
tell them that in a short time we will be with them in considerable force. Many volunteers
from the United States are now making preparations to join us. We are determined upon
liberty or death! We look upon you as our brothers, and as such expect to find you in
arms, ready to avenge our wrongs and to protect your own rights against the faithless
government. Believe me, my friend, we have nothing but oppression to expect under it. The
only security, the only hopes of Americans, is in their arms. They have conquered the
conquerors of Europe, and they will ever conquer when liberty is the prize. Adieu. Write
me immediately. Your friend, B. W. EDWARDS

Letters to Cherokees from
Ahumada, Saucedo and Austin

Commandante Ahumada and
Jefe-Politico Saucedo to Fields. General Mateo Ahumada, the military
commandant, and the political chief, Saucedo, addressed the following letters to Richard
Fields, the Cherokee chief, for the purpose, if possible, of disengaging him from alliance
with the rebellious colonists, if there should be any truth in Hunter's claim that Fields
had in fact joined the revolt.

Ahumada to Fields. SAN FELIPE DE AUSTIN,
January 4, 1827. PRINCIPAL DEPT. OF ARMS IN TEXAS. To RICHARD FIELDS, Chief of the
Cherokees: I have received information from various sources that you have united with the
party of Americans who in Nacogdoches have declared themselves opposed to the supreme
government of Mexico. Relying, however, on the prudence and probity which you have justly
acquired, I have not given full faith to this news, and have, therefore, thought proper to
say to you that if you feel any sentiments of displeasure against the superior authority,
I can assure you it has not been the intention of the government to neglect you in the
slightest degree, and that they will listen with paternal love to any solicitations you
may think proper to make, and will grant such as are not in opposition to the law. I am
informed that in Mexico you were told to visit the state of Coahuila and Texas and select
the lands that pleased you for your settlement, and apply for them immediately. If you
have not selected them, and not asked for them, it was not the fault of the government
that you are not now in possession of them. Notwithstanding, you peaceably and tranquilly
occupy lands of the nation. If you have since appointed other persons to represent your
affairs in Mexico, and have not received the satisfaction you expected, it has no doubt
arisen in consequence of your agent not carrying the necessary credentials, and
consequently the supreme government doubted whether you really had sent them. Prudence and
judgment, which adorn you, imperiously require that in a matter of so delicate a nature
the utmost circumspection should be used. A precipitate commencement of hostilities will
produce evils of the greatest magnitude. The arms of the republic of Mexico, which protect
the department of Texas, and which I have the honor of commanding, must not be stained by
the blood of my fellow-citizens, the Cherokees, nor with that of the other nations with
whom they are united. Our common enemy is on the other side of the ocean. The party of
Americans who in Nacogdoches have attacked the Mexican authorities will doubtless interest
themselves to compromit you, for, having committed one error, they will follow it up by
others still greater; but you are not in that situation, and I therefore desire that you
come in person to the Trinity River, at the crossing of the main road near the Lomo de
Toro, or to this town, where I am detained by bad weather, in order that we may have an
interview and a discussion of this subject between the chief of the department of Texas,
Jose Antonio Saucedo, Mr. Stephen F. Austin, yourself and myself, and come to such an
understanding as the common interest may require, and I feel no hesitation in assuring you
that the result will not be disagreeable to you. I therefore hope that you will inform me,
in answer to this, your feelings on the subject, with the understanding that the republic
of Mexico has no cause whatever to declare war against the Cherokees or other tribes with
whom they are united. I have expressed myself to you with the frankness that characterizes
me, and I expect the answer of a man of honor, and presenting you with my consideration
and respect, I remain yours, etc. God and Liberty. MATEO AHUMADA. I certify the foregoing
to be a true translation of the original which accompanies it. STEPHEN F. AUSTIN. SAMUEL
M. WILLIAMS, Secretary. January 4, 1827 SAN FELIPE DE AUSTIN

Saucedo to Fields.
January 4, 1827. To CITIZEN RICHARD FIELDS, Chief of the Cherokee Nation : When you went
to the City of Mexico to solicit land for colonization in this department, I have no doubt
the government received your propositions liberally, leaving to your option the selection
of the land which might appear best adapted for your new colony, which promise, I can
assure you, will not be violated by the government unless there should be some violation
on your part. This unequivocal proof of the paternal love of the Mexican government
towards those who seek an asylum within its bosom is conclusive as to the friendship and
esteem with which you were treated by the supreme authorities. The letters which you have
thought proper to write to me, offering me your services in defence of the country and its
inhabitants, gave me the greatest satisfaction, and as documents of importance I forwarded
them to the supreme authorities to whom I am subject, without one moment's delay, and they
viewed with the greatest pleasure the sentiments of love, fidelity, and patriotism
expressed by their adopted children.

Now that I have heard through various individuals that you have offered
your support and protection to the perverse individuals who, in Nacogdoches, have attacked
the sovereignty of the nation, depriving of their offices the legal authorities of that
place arbitrarily, substituting others in their place, in violation of the laws which
govern us, I am filled with astonishment and regret, and cannot but believe that you have
some misconception on the subject, or have been deceived by individuals who, from
interested motives, are endeavoring to compromit you in a matter of such delicacy and
importance. I am firmly persuaded that if, with your accustomed prudence and reflection,
you will take into consideration my observations, you will be satisfied that my government
is just and incapable of violating its promises, unless the contracting parties, on their
part, violate the contract made with them; and if the government of Mexico has not
despatched your petition for colonization, it has been because your agents did not carry
the necessary credentials, or that the multiplicity of the occupations which surround
them, and of which we are ignorant, has delayed it. But it can all be regulated if we
treat the matter with the prudence and moderation which the subject requires, and not with
violence, as that produces nothing but the ruin of the federation of the states and of the
towns of our brothers. In order, therefore, to stop at once the evils which on either side
surround this delicate business, I will esteem the favor if you will agree to meet me
either on the Trinity River, at the crossing of the main road near the Lomo de Toro, or at
this place, where we can have an interview, you and myself, the commandant-of-arms and
Citizen Stephen F. Austin, in order there to agree upon what is most likely to benefit our
political and social interests, and bind ourselves in an inseparable manner to fight, not
one against the other, but joined against the enemies of public tranquillity and repose,
and of our liberty and independence. If these sincere expressions, springing from that
paternal love which glows in my bosom, are considered by you as worthy of attention, I
shall expect your answer with the utmost possible brevity, offering to you, in all times
and places, the consideration and respect which, I think, you so justly merit. God and
Liberty. JOSE ANTONIO SAUCEDO. I certify that the foregoing is a true translation of the
original which accompanies it. STEPHEN F. AUSTIN. SAMUEL M. WILLIAMS, Secretary. January
4, 1827

Austin Letters to Cherokee
Leaders. Austin likewise wrote the following letters to the Indians and
their representatives

Austin to Hunter. MR. J. D. HUNTER. SAN
FELIPE DE AUSTIN, January 4, 1827. DEAR SIR,-Report has informed me of the interest you
are taking in favor of the Cherokees. Your object in uniting temporarily with the
Nacogdoches insurrection is to procure lands for the Cherokees from the Mexican
government. To suppose for one moment that your object is civil war and rebellion would be
to suppose you destitute of that intelligence, integrity, and judgment which you have
always manifested on all occasions, so far as I have heard of you. The object that I take
for granted, then, is, to procure a legal title from the Mexican government for lands for
the Cherokees, and in this object I will aid you if legal steps are taken. I know that the
Cherokees can get their lands if the legal steps are adopted, and if they take the wrong
course they are lost. The ruin may not be immediate, but it will ultimately fall and
overwhelm them and their friends. I hope to see you shortly, in company with the Cherokee
chief, in conformity with the request of the chief of this department and the
commandant-of -arms, and I can prove to you that this opinion is well founded. When you
were here I expressed myself fully as to the Cherokees, and unequivocally stated that I
was a friend of those Indians, and would take an interest in their affairs, so far as my
duty to this government would permit. The chief of department is now here, and assures me
that the government never have nor will refuse to comply with the promises made to the
Cherokees. You very well know the delays attending the despatch of governmental business
at any time, and more particularly in a government situated as this is, just formed and
scarcely organized. Delay was to be expected, but this is no proof that the business of
the Cherokees would not be finished. The government have never refused them lands, have
never expressed any dissatisfaction at their settlement where they now are, and, I have no
doubt, will be willing to give them a title to lands at that place, so that the way is
perfectly clear and plain, Bring in the Cherokee chiefs to this place, or to the Trinity
River, to see the chief of department, as he has requested, and all will be right.

There is a happy moment in the tide of all events, and men of talent
know when that moment arrives, and how to use it. If you are the man of talents I beleve
you to be, and are actuated by the benevolent feelings towards the Cherokees hich you
profess, you will see that the favorable moment in the tide of their affairs as arrived,
and you will embrace it. Before the sword is drawn, the government will yield a title to
the Cherokees, to keep it in the scabbard; but once drawn and stained with blood, they
will never yield one hair's breadth, and nothing short of the extermination or expulsion
of that nation will satisfy them! The happy moment, then, has arrived; use it prudently
and promptly, and you save the Cherokees, the cause of humanity, and save the country from
a war of massacre and desolation. My dear sir, let us examine this subject calmly; let us
suppose that the Indians overrun the whole country and take possession of it for the
present, as far as the Rio Grande, and drive out or massacre all the honest inhabitants;
what will they gain? What kind of a government will they establish? How will they sustain
themselves? You know the Indians well enough to know that so many different tribes of
different habits and languages cannot be organized into anything like regular government,
or government of any kind, and could not long agree among themselves. When the Spaniards
and Americans are driven out and there is no common enemy to contend with, they would
fight among themselves, and nothing but confusion and massacre and plunder would be the
consequence. As to the miserable Americans who might remain and form a part of such a
combination, they would be too insignificant, both as to character or property or numbers,
to expect anything, or to have, or to deserve to have, any influence in any way. All would
be Indians! But admitting you succeed this far and get possession of the country
temporarily, how are you to keep that possession? The Mexican nation has force to subdue
you; and even admitting they had not, she can procure it from the United States of the
North, for both nations would unite in crushing a common enemy to both, and annihilating
so dangerous and troublesome a neighbor as a large combination of Indians would be.

But admitting the government of the United States would not furnish
troops, and this government could not subdue the country, they would cede it to the United
States, were it for no other reason than to get rid of such neighbors, and the United
States would soon sweep the country of Indians and drive them, as they always have driven
them, to ruin and extermination. So that admitting this madness, this independence,
succeeds to its full extent, the parties concerned have nothing but ruin in prospect, and
will either cause the country to be desolated or throw it into the hands of the United
States, and in either case the Indians are lost, past redemption lost! It is reported, on
the best authority, that this government has already ceded this country to the United
States. The report comes from the east and the west. Now, then, is the happy moment in the
tide of Cherokee fortunes; get titles for them from this government before the treaty is
ratified, and they are safe. Delay it with the delusive hope of taking the country, and
they are lost. You know the government of the United States and its policy as respects
lands and Indians. I write you freely and frankly, as a true friend of the Cherokees and
of virtue and justice. Reflect on these matters. They now have a friend in me who can and
will serve them if they take the legal course; they now can bring their affairs to a happy
issue or they can ruin themselves, the American population, and the country. As respects
the Edwardses, they have been deceived or are deceiving themselves as to my feelings
towards them, and the letters of the chief of department and commandant-of-arms to Hayden
Edwards ought to be sufficient to prove to them that I have at least done nothing against
them. This government have by those letters offered a complete and full and unequivocal
oblivion as to the occurrences at Nacogdoches since the commencement of these last
disturbances, provided they now cease. This places Edwards and the others on the same
ground they occupied before this affair; also the door is open for a new hearing, or, if
you please, a hearing in full (supposing none to have been heretofore had), as to the
affairs of his colony and everything connected with his acts since he came to the country.

The personal security of all concerned is guaranteed expressly by the
chief in his letters while these matters (whose origin was previous to the last
disturbances) are under investigation; and as to the union and acts of the party at
Nacogdoches, there will be no investigation of any kind, for the general oblivion settles
all that forever as respects the government. The door is therefore thrown open without
reserve for all to come forward freely and under the guarantee of their personal security
to present their complaints to the tribunals of justice, be those complaints of whatever
nature. Edwards can have an opportunity of showing that the information given against him
by the local authorities of Nacogdoches was false, and that the government has been
deceived by those subordinate officers; and if he proves this, justice and equity and
honor will at once say that if injustice has been done to him by a hasty decision, that
that decision should be reversed. The way is now perfectly clear for you all; embrace this
favorable aspect of things with the promptness and moderation you ought to do and all your
affairs will end well; take an obstinate stand and ask too much and you are all lost, for
the Americans will not uphold any party contrary to justice, law, and reason. This colony
is now united to a man and ready to march under the banners of the nation to sustain the
government. What will they do if these pacific and benevolent measures on the part of
their government are not met with the respect and promptness by the opposing party which
they so justly merit? As to myself, I am your friend, so far as my duty to this government
and to the cause of justice will permit; beyond this I am your open enemy, and so is every
man of honor in the country, the chief expressly states in his proclamation to the
citizens that his object in visiting this part of the country is to bear the complaints
that may exist against the local authorities of Nacogdoches, and I can assure you that
these complaints will be heard, and those authorities dealt by as the law prescribes, if
the proper steps are taken. Come, therefore, and bring the Cherokee chief and the
Edwardses, and see the chief of department and commandant-of-arms; come quickly and
without hesitation. I pledge myself, and this colony will sustain the pledge, that your
personal security shall be sacred if you come in that frank and respectful manner which is
due the authorities of the government. Let me hear from you, but let it be with frankness.
The road to peace and happiness is now opened; look at it and the happy prospects it leads
to, and look at the road that leads to rebellion, and civil and Indian wars, and its
results, and make your election. Yours respectfully, STEPHEN F. AUSTIN

Austin to Fields, Bowles and Big Mush. TO MY
FRIENDS AND BROTHERS, THE CHIEFS AND WARRIORS OF THE CHEROKEES, LIVING IN TEXAS This will
be delivered to you by two of your old friends and brothers, John Cummings and William
Robbins; they will tell you the truth; listen to their counsel and follow it. My brothers,
I fear you have been deceived by bad men who wish to make use of you to fight their
battles; they will ruin you and your people if you follow their counsel. The governor
wrote to you, and sent on judge Ellis, of Huntsville, Alabama, and Mr. James Cummins from
the Colorado, and James Kerr from the Guadalupe, to see you at Nacogdoches and tell you
the truth; but I fear John D. Hunter has concealed the letters and the truth from you, for
he and Edwards would not suffer those men to talk with the Indians. I therefore now send
you copies of the same letters that were sent by the governor and delivered to Hunter,
which he promised to send to you immediately. By these letters you will see the government
have never had any intention to break the promises made to you, and that they are ready to
comply with them, provided you do your duty as good men.

My brothers, why is it that you wish to fight your old friends and
brothers the Americans? God forbid that we should ever shed each other's blood. No; let us
always be friends and always live in peace and harmony. The Americans of this colony, the
Guadalupe and Trinity, are all united to a man in favor of the Mexican government, and
will fight to defend it. We will fight those foolish men who have raised the flag at
Nacogdoches; we will fight any people on earth who are opposed to the Mexican government,
and we are all united as one man. The bad men, who have been trying to mislead you, have
told you that we would all join you. This is not true; not one of us will join them. Those
bad men have told you that Americans would come on from the United States and join them.
This is not true; a few runaways and vagabonds who cannot live in their own country may
join them, but no others. The American government will not permit such a thing, and, if
this government asks it, will send troops to aid us. Why do you wish to fight the
Mexicans? They have done you no wrong; you have lived in peace and quietness in their
territory, and the government have never refused to comply with their promises, provided
you do your duty as good men. What, then, is it you ask for, or what do you expect to gain
by war?

My brothers, reflect on your situation; you are on the brink of a
dreadful precipice. The Cherokees are a civilized and honorable people, and will you unite
yourselves with wild savages to murder and, plunder helpless women and children? Will you
unite yourselves with bad men of any nation to fight and plunder peaceable inhabitants?
No, my friends, I know you will not. Bad men have tried to make you believe that the
Mexican government had neglected you, and you have for this reason complained; but, my
friends, those bad men have deceived you. The government is new, and it requires much time
and attention to regulate all its different branches, and this may have delayed your
business, but it is no proof that it would never be done. Open your eyes to your true
interests, drive away those bad men who wish to lead you into ruin, and come with Cummings
and Robbins and see the governor and your true friends, and all will be right. My
brothers, Edwards is deceiving you; he once threatened to take your land from you, and
would have done it if he could, but he had no right to interfere with you; the government
gave him no right to disturb you, and he is the only man who has ever attempted to molest
you, and now he pretends to be your friend, and wants you to fight his battles and ruin
yourselves.

Will you suffer such a man to deceive you? The government annulled his
contract because he was trying to take away land from those who were settled before he
went there. He tried to take away your lands, but the government stopped him, and defended
and protected your rights as well as the rights of the whites; and will you fight for such
a man and turn against the government who has protected you from his attempts to ruin you?
No, my friends, you will not. You have been deceived by him; leave him and come and see
the governor and hear the truth. STEPHEN F. AUSTIN. TO CAPTAINS FIELDS, BOWLES, AND BIG
MUSH, and other Warriors of the Cherokee Nation living in Texas. SAN FELIPE DE AUSTIN,
24th January, 1827